Things To Do
in Nanbu
Nanbu is a rural region in northeastern Japan (Aomori Prefecture) known for its rolling hills, forests, and traditional crafts. The area serves as a gateway to mountain trails, hot springs, and quaint townscapes where old shops and shrines sit along winding streets. Visitors experience a blend of seasonal markets, artisanal workshops, and Slow Life culture in Nanbu's towns.
The climate brings distinct seasons, from snow-capped winters to blossoming springs and colorful autumns, making it a year-round destination for nature and culture seekers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Aomori Airport and take a scenic drive to Nanbu, admiring the beautiful Japanese countryside along the way. Check in to your traditional ryokan, where you can experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies.
Explore the Nanbu Sake Brewery, where you can learn about the sake-making process and sample their signature brews. Take a stroll through the quaint streets of Nanbu, visiting local shops and art galleries that showcase regional crafts. Discover the rich history of the area by visiting the Nanbu Heritage Museum.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local izakaya, savoring freshly caught seafood and seasonal dishes. Take a walk around the town to soak in the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather for the evening. Finish your day with a relaxing soak in the ryokan's onsen, rejuvenating your spirit.
Set out early for a hiking adventure in the gorgeous Nanbu Mountains, where fresh mountain air and stunning views await. Enjoy a packed breakfast while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora along the hiking trails.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, giving you a chance to recharge with refreshments and snacks. Visit the nearby Lake Towada, famous for its crystal-clear waters and gorgeous views. Take a boat ride on the lake to fully appreciate its beauty and tranquility.
Return to Nanbu and treat yourself to a hot, soothing bath at the ryokan’s onsen. For dinner, indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal that artfully presents seasonal ingredients. Spend the evening relaxing and reflecting on the day's adventures while enjoying some evening tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍱Bento lunch | $6-12 |
| 🍜Noodle dish | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🏨1-night budget hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚕1 km taxi ride | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning rural landscapes and seasonal scenery
- Rich crafts and local culture with approachable, friendly communities
- Generally affordable in comparison to major cities
- Direct access to nature and traditional onsens
- Limited nightlife and English might be less common in rural shops
- Smaller-scale transport options and fewer major attractions
- Language barriers can be challenging in remote areas
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
- "はい / いいえ" - Yes / No
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
- "これはいくらですか" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "日本語が少ししか話せません" - I only speak a little Japanese.
- "助けてください" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Nanbu
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks in winter and emerald ridges in summer; shoot long exposure at sunrise.
Golden-hour fields and winding rivers provide reflective scenes with rural silhouettes.
Historic gates and narrow lanes offer texture-rich urban photography and candid street scenes.
Cotton-candy skies and rows of trees heavy with fruit create vibrant fall color shots.
Food in Nanbu
Nanbu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional dessert featuring crisp apples from local orchards and a flaky pastry, often found at town bakeries and cafés.
Must-Try!
Locally produced beverages that highlight the area’s apples, available at markets and some sake breweries.
A rustic stew using regional beef cut, simmered with root vegetables and soy-based broth, served in rural eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market with fresh seafood, apples, mochi, grilled skewers, and seasonal snacks—great for sampling street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect quiet in public spaces, remove shoes indoors where appropriate, bow politely when greeting, and handle money with both hands in formal settings.
Proceed respectfully, do not touch sacred objects, and follow purification rituals at water basins.
Safety
Tipping in Nanbu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is expected, and there is usually no tipping at restaurants or ryokan unless requested.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural shops. Many places in towns accept credit cards; ATMs at post offices and banks are common. Mobile payments are increasingly available in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures up to the mid-teens C; cherry blossoms and fresh greens make for gentle hikes and market visits.
Warm, with average highs around 25-28 C; occasional rain; great for outdoor markets and riverine strolls.
Crisp air and brilliant foliage; perfect for photography and harvest-related activities.
Cold with snowfall; spectacular snow landscapes and hot springs, but travel can be slower; dress in layers.
Nanbu at Night
Hiking in Nanbu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range with year-round hiking, snowshoeing in winter, and alpine scenery; ropeway access in certain seasons.
Forest and lake trails with views of Towada Lake and surrounding peaks.
Airports
How to reach Nanbu by plane.
Main regional airport serving Aomori Prefecture; flights to Tokyo and other major hubs; about a 1.5–2 hour drive/bus ride to Nanbu depending on the town.
Smaller international/domestic airport; good for domestic connections and access to northern coastal areas; drive or take a bus to Nanbu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many rural communities have aging residents and a high proportion of long-standing family-run businesses.
Traditional livelihoods in agriculture and forestry shape daily life and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Skiing and snowboarding are popular in the Hakkoda range during winter.
Common recreational sports at schools and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanbu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on meat or dashi broth; opt for vegetable tempura, rice bowls, tofu dishes, and seek out vegetarian options at larger eateries or vegetarian-friendly cafés.